In the early aughts, when I was in my late teens and early twenties—in typical millennial-girl aesthetic—Sex and the City became my entire personality, and I lived by this Carrie Bradshaw quote. Shopping, for me, was a combination of cardio and therapy. Whenever I was feeling restless, anxious, bored, or lonely—which was often in those early days after I moved back to Omaha and didn’t know anyone—I’d grab my slouchy hobo bag and head for the mall. If all I did was walk a few laps and window shop, taking in the recent trend arrivals, and noting the pieces I wanted but would wait for a sale, I considered it time well spent.

I’ve always been a planner. I like knowing what comes next and stacking habits that support my day. (I blame my fixed Leo sign for this.) But over time, I noticed that checking off my to-do list left me bored, frustrated, and resentful of my own schedule, especially when I didn’t get everything done. That’s when I started noticing the difference between routine and ritual.

Vintage pieces have the incredible ability to tell a story, bring history into your home, and add layers of warmth and authenticity that new items lack. Personally, I find shopping vintage isn’t just about finding those perfectly aesthetic pieces. Rather, it’s about sustainability, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the objects that have stood the test of time. These pieces carry a sense of character deep within the hand-carved details, rich patinas & heirloom-quality construction that our modern equivalents lack. Whether you’re drawn to the rustic charm of old farmhouse tables, the elegance of gilded European mirrors, or the cozy nostalgia of floral china, hunting for vintage treasures allows you to curate a home that feels truly personal and lived-in. Today, I’m sharing my top tips for shopping vintage.